Post by : Raman

Photo : AFP

Malaysia’s journey in the men’s doubles event at the World Badminton Championships in Paris ended in disappointment early this morning. Both remaining Malaysian men’s doubles pairs were knocked out of the competition, ending hopes of a medal in the category.

World No. 2 pair Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik, along with the No. 7 pair Man Wei Chong and Tee Kai Wun, were eliminated in the quarter-finals after losing to opponents from India and South Korea respectively.

This leaves only two Malaysian pairs in the semi-finals: women’s doubles duo Pearly Tan and Thinaah M., and mixed doubles pair Chen Tang Jie and Toh Ee Wei. Both pairs have now secured at least a bronze medal for the country.

Men’s Doubles: A Tale of Narrow Losses

Wei Chong and Kai Wun, who were competing in their first World Championships, performed impressively against the world No. 1 Korean pair Kim Won Ho and Seo Seung Jae. Their match was long and closely fought, ending 21-23, 23-21, 15-21.

The Malaysians showed courage and skill, saving two match points in the second game to push the match into a decider. However, the Koreans’ ability to return extremely difficult shots proved decisive, giving them the victory in the end.

Meanwhile, Aaron Chia and Wooi Yik, who have previously won the World Championship in 2022 and claimed a bronze last year, suffered a straight-game loss to India’s Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty. The scores were 12-21, 19-21.

This defeat was unexpected. Historically, Aaron and Wooi Yik have had a strong record against the Indian pair, winning 11 out of 14 previous encounters, including victories earlier this year at the Singapore and China Opens. Fans and analysts alike had hoped that the duo’s experience would carry them through, but the Indians played a strong and consistent game to claim victory.

Women’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles: Malaysia Still in the Hunt

Despite the men’s doubles exit, Malaysia’s hopes for medals remain strong in other categories.

In women’s doubles, world No. 2 Pearly Tan and Thinaah M. will face Japan’s third-ranked pair, Nami Matsuyama and Chiharu Shida, in today’s semi-finals.

In mixed doubles, world No. 4 pair Chen Tang Jie and Toh Ee Wei are set to meet France’s Delphine Delrue and Thom Gicquel, ranked No. 8, in this evening’s semi-finals. Both Malaysian pairs have guaranteed at least a bronze medal, continuing the country’s presence in the tournament’s final rounds.

Importance of the Tournament

While the World Badminton Championships do not offer prize money, the competition carries immense prestige. It is considered one of the most important tournaments in the badminton world, offering the highest ranking points in the Badminton World Federation (BWF) calendar.

Winning the tournament provides 14,500 points, while the runners-up receive 12,500 points. Semi-finalists are awarded 10,500 points, quarter-finalists 8,200 points, and those reaching the last 16 earn 6,000 points. These points are crucial for players as they try to qualify for the BWF World Tour Finals later in December.

For Malaysian shuttlers, performing well in this tournament is not just about medals. It is also about securing enough ranking points to compete in future prestigious events and maintain their standing among the world’s top players.

Analysis: Why the Men’s Doubles Lost

The exit of Malaysia’s men’s doubles pairs can be attributed to several factors.

1. Strong Opponents: The Indian and Korean pairs are world-class teams. While Malaysia had a good track record against them, the opponents played with high precision and consistency.

2. Pressure of the Quarter-Finals: Playing in the later stages of a World Championship brings intense pressure. Every point counts, and small mistakes can decide the outcome.

3. Nerves and First-Time Experiences: For Wei Chong and Kai Wun, this was their first World Championship. Competing at such a high level for the first time can be challenging, even for talented players.

Despite the losses, both pairs earned respect for their performances. They fought hard, showcased skill and determination, and represented Malaysia with pride.

Malaysian Fans: Disappointment and Hope

Fans in Malaysia experienced mixed emotions. There was sadness and disappointment over the early exit of the men’s doubles pairs, especially since Aaron Chia and Wooi Yik were favorites for a medal.

At the same time, there is excitement about the women’s doubles and mixed doubles events. Pearly Tan-Thinaah and Chen Tang Jie-Toh Ee Wei have kept the country’s medal hopes alive.

Social media platforms were filled with messages of support for the players, praising their efforts and encouraging them to continue giving their best in the semi-finals.

The Road Ahead for Malaysia

The semi-finals today will be crucial. Both Malaysian pairs will play against strong opponents, and the pressure will be high.

• Women’s Doubles: Pearly Tan and Thinaah will need to use strategy, teamwork, and speed to outplay the Japanese pair.

• Mixed Doubles: Chen Tang Jie and Toh Ee Wei will need focus, precision, and mental toughness against the French duo.

Winning a place in the finals would not only bring a chance at gold but also increase Malaysia’s standing in international badminton.

Lessons for Malaysian Badminton

The men’s doubles exit is a setback, but it also provides lessons:

1. Experience Matters: Young and first-time players gain valuable experience even in defeat. This can help them perform better in future tournaments.

2. Consistency Is Key: Even world-class players can lose if their opponents are precise and consistent.

3. Support from Fans Helps: Encouragement and morale from supporters can motivate players to keep fighting in tough matches.

Malaysia’s badminton future remains strong. The country has talented players in all categories, and continued investment in training, coaching, and international exposure is essential.

Pride in Effort

While the men’s doubles exit was disappointing, Malaysia still has reasons to celebrate. Pearly Tan-Thinaah in women’s doubles and Chen Tang Jie-Toh Ee Wei in mixed doubles will continue the country’s journey in the semi-finals. Both pairs are guaranteed at least a bronze medal, ensuring that Malaysia will be on the podium once again.

The World Badminton Championships are not just about winning; they are about showcasing talent, gaining experience, and representing one’s country at the highest level. Malaysian shuttlers have shown courage, skill, and determination, and the nation can be proud of their efforts.

As the semi-finals unfold today, fans will hope for thrilling matches and, hopefully, more medals for Malaysia. No matter the results, the spirit of Malaysian badminton remains strong, inspiring young players across the country to dream big and aim high.

Malaysia badminton, World Badminton Championships 2025, Aaron Chia Soh Wooi Yik